By || Goodluck E.Adubazi || Abuja
The Federal Government has reiterated its resolve to deliver the Sokoto–Gusau–Funtau–Zaria Road Project on schedule and to the highest quality standards, warning that contractors who fail to meet agreed timelines and specifications will face sanctions.
The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., gave the warning on Sunday, January 25, 2026, during an on-the-spot inspection of reconstruction works along critical sections of the 750-kilometre highway linking Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna States.
Inspecting the Dange–Shuni axis in Sokoto State and sections passing through Talata Mafara, Maru and Bungudu in Zamfara State, the Minister said the Federal Government would not tolerate undue delays on projects of national importance.
He explained that the inspection was carried out on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to ensure strict compliance with approved standards, value for money and timely delivery of infrastructure projects aimed at easing transportation challenges and stimulating economic activity.
“I am personally leading senior officials of the Ministry across these states to verify the quality of work being delivered and to ensure contractors live up to their responsibilities,” Goronyo said, adding that he was also representing the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, GCON, in assessing compliance with project specifications.
While acknowledging commendable progress on some sections, the Minister expressed concern over the overall pace of work, urging contractors to accelerate construction to reduce the hardship faced by road users.
He noted that the Sokoto–Tureta–Mafara section, currently at about 27 per cent completion, showed encouraging signs, but described progress on the Mafara–Maru–Gusau section—at roughly 16 per cent—as unsatisfactory.
Goronyo warned that the Federal Government would not hesitate to restructure the project on underperforming sections, including limiting contractors to shorter distances or reassigning outstanding portions to more competent firms if significant improvement is not recorded.
He disclosed that earlier challenges related to compensation for affected properties had been resolved, commending Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, for facilitating payments and ensuring community cooperation. He also acknowledged the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, for coordinating security support that has improved safety for workers and equipment along the corridor.
Reaffirming the administration’s infrastructure policy, the Minister said the adoption of concrete pavement technology under President Tinubu is designed to deliver more durable, cost-effective and long-lasting roads nationwide.
He further highlighted the ongoing 1,068-kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway Project as a flagship initiative that revives the vision of former President Shehu Shagari, noting that it would enhance connectivity, boost trade and strengthen national integration.
Goronyo praised President Tinubu for prioritising infrastructure development, describing road networks as vital enablers of economic growth, unity and shared prosperity under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He also commended the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, for his leadership and commitment to reforms that emphasise durability, sustainability and long-term value.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is about results. Nigerians deserve roads that last and projects that are completed on time, and this administration is committed to delivering just that,” the Minister said.
The inspection tour was accompanied by top officials of the Ministry of Works, including the Director of Highways Construction and Rehabilitation, Mr. U.B. Ekong, and the Director of Highways Planning and Development, Mr. C.A. Ogbuagu. The Minister and his team also engaged host communities, assuring residents that outstanding compensation and project-related concerns would be addressed to ensure smooth and uninterrupted execution of the project.
